Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Bindweed (background), foxtail (foreground), thistle, and burdock are bad but not
poisonous. Wooly loco is poisonous to horses and should be eradicated from pastures
and hay fields.
Bottom right:
When given a choice, Aria avoids the lupine and grazes
the lush grass-mix pasture. When forage is scarce, however, horses will eat poisonous
plants.
The best defense against weeds is to establish a good, vigorous stand of grasses and
legumes that can compete with weeds and to avoid overgrazing pastures: overgrazing in-
vites weeds. Mowing can impair weed growth by removing the larger-leafed, more vigor-
ous weeds that shade the developing desirable plants. If the plants are cut before the seed-
pods are mature, it can also prevent the start of a new cycle of weeds. Most fields tend to
clean themselves of weeds with strategically timed pasture mowing or after the first cutting
of hay during the second year. Try to buy weed-free hay, or you may inadvertently intro-
duce new weeds to your property each time you feed.
Burning eliminates mature vegetation and seeds and kills some parasites, but it can be
a safety hazard and an air polluter. It is usually done in spring. Check to see if your local
ordinances require a burning permit.
Points to remember when using herbicides
• Check to see if you need an applicator's license.
• Read directions carefully and mix according to manufacturer's directions.
• Don't think that if a little is good, a lot is better; you could do permanent dam-
age to your land.
• Remove all animals from the area and leave them off as long as directions in-
dicate.
• Be aware of wind drift as you apply; you could inadvertently kill your newly
planted fruit trees or destroy your garden or your neighbor's.
• Beware of contaminating streams and other water sources.
• Use only approved herbicides for riparian areas.
• Wear a respirator.
• Wear rubber boots, not leather shoes or boots. Wear rubber gloves.
• Keep your dogs and cats confined for as long as the directions indicate.
